Vaccinations are one of the most effective tools dog owners have to protect their dogs from serious and often fatal diseases. But the schedule can be confusing — especially for new puppy owners. This guide covers the UK vaccination framework based on WSAVA and BSAVA guidelines.
Always follow your vet's specific advice. Schedules may vary by product, region, and your dog's lifestyle risk factors.
Core Vaccines — Every Dog Needs These
Core vaccines protect against diseases with high mortality, wide geographic distribution, or significant public health impact.
Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus (DHP or DHPPi)
These three diseases are typically combined in a single injection.
- Puppy primary course: Two injections, 2–4 weeks apart. First injection from 6–8 weeks of age. Second at 10–12 weeks.
- First booster: 12 months after the primary course (this is critical — the puppy course alone may not produce full immunity in all dogs).
- Subsequent boosters: Every 3 years for distemper and parvovirus. Every 1–3 years for hepatitis depending on product.
Leptospirosis (L2 or L4)
Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease spread through water contaminated by infected animal urine (rats, cattle, foxes). It can cause kidney and liver failure and can be transmitted to humans.
- Puppy primary course: Two injections, 4 weeks apart.
- Booster: Annual. Immunity from Lepto vaccines wanes faster than viral vaccines — annual boosters are important.
- L4 covers four strains vs L2's two — discuss which is appropriate with your vet based on your area and lifestyle.
Non-Core Vaccines — Lifestyle-Dependent
Kennel Cough (Bordetella bronchiseptica and Parainfluenza)
Recommended for dogs who attend boarding kennels, daycare, training classes, or dog shows. Usually given as a nasal spray or oral liquid. Annual boosters. Many kennels require evidence of vaccination.
Rabies
Not required in the UK unless your dog travels internationally. Required for the Pet Travel Scheme (PETS) to re-enter the UK from most countries. Must be administered at least 21 days before travel. Check APHA guidance for current requirements.
The Puppy Schedule (Typical UK Timeline)
| Age | Vaccine |
|---|---|
| 6–8 weeks | DHP first dose + Lepto first dose |
| 10–12 weeks | DHP second dose + Lepto second dose + Kennel cough (if needed) |
| 14–16 weeks (optional) | Third DHP dose if high-risk situation or low maternal antibodies |
| 12 months | DHP booster + Lepto booster + Kennel cough |
| Every year after | Lepto + Kennel cough (if lifestyle requires) |
| Every 3 years | DHP (distemper + parvovirus component) |
When Can Puppies Go Outside?
This is one of the most common questions new puppy owners have. General guidance: puppies are typically safe to go in public spaces 1–2 weeks after their second vaccination. However, socialisation is also critical during this window — your vet can advise on safe approaches (e.g. carrying your puppy in areas before full vaccination).
Adult Dogs with Unknown History
Rescue dogs or dogs with incomplete vaccination records can be re-started on the primary course. Blood titre testing can check whether immunity already exists for core viral vaccines, which can avoid unnecessary boosters — though titre testing is not a full replacement for all vaccines.
Tracking Vaccinations
Keep a record of every vaccination: date, product name, batch number, and next due date. Woofio lets you log each vaccine with its due date and sends you a reminder before the booster is needed — so you never arrive at the vet unsure of what's overdue.